Woman in serious condition after being buried in avalanche

Published: Saturday, Jan. 12 2013 10:10 p.m. MST

MILLCREEK CANYON — A 43-year-old woman was taken to the hospital in serious condition Saturday evening after being buried in an avalanche.

The woman was backcountry skiing with a male companion in the West Porter area of Millcreek Canyon when they triggered an avalanche around 5 p.m., Unified Police Lt. Justin Hoyal said. They had avalanche equipment and the man was able to find the woman and get her unburied.

"She wasn't breathing, but he was able to resuscitate her and call for help," Hoyal said.

The woman suffered head injuries. The Utah Highway Patrol sent its helicopter to get the pair out of the area and to the Unified Fire Authority, who then transported her to University Hospital.

Hoyal said she was in serious condition at the time she was transported. The man who rescued her was uninjured.

"The important message here is to remember, when you're in the backcountry, use caution and go prepared," Hoyal said. "(This man) had the proper equipment and he was able to save this lady's life."